In December, 1990 Commerce Business Daily (CBD) published a Request For Information (RFI) was seeking sources to integrate commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) image processing systems with various input media. Requirements included an open systems architecture to facilitate ready integration of a variety of user systems with modular and easy expansion. The RFI further indicated that Because of the rapid evolution of COTS, the RFI noted that numerous imaging processing systems might apply to this requirement.
Desert Shield and Desert Storm added increased emphasis to the requirement for reliable tactical intelligence. Though the war impacted the MVS acquisition schedule it also highlighted the need for quality, timely, and effective tactical intelligence.